A. Intent. In accordance with the comprehensive plan, the intent of this section is to formalize the community recognition of essential elements of the community’s character, history and identity. This section will provide a process for the city council to publicly recognize heritage properties.

B. The historic preservation commission shall review properties to be recognized as heritage properties: an honorary, limited list of exemplary properties that the city has prioritized for long term preservation. Any building, structure, site or object, whether publicly or privately owned, may be recognized as a heritage property.

C. Criteria. A property that meets each of the following criteria is eligible for recognition:

1. Its loss would mean a diminution of the island’s special character;

2. It must be eligible for at least one of the eligibility criteria for the local register of historic places;

3. It must retain its original architectural integrity, having no major exterior alterations or additions;

4. It is a significant contributor to its neighborhood’s character; and

5. It is visually accessible to the public.

D. Process for Recognizing Heritage Properties.

1. Any person may recommend a property for heritage recognition.

2. Annually, the historic preservation commission shall submit its recommendation for additions of properties to city council for recognition, based on heritage criteria.

3. Once a recommendation has been made, the historic preservation commission shall notify the property owner that their property is eligible for recognition.

4. Any appeal of a recommendation from the historic preservation commission shall occur before a final determination is made by the city council.

5. The council shall review the recommendations from the historic preservation commission and decide at a council meeting which properties shall be recognized.

6. If recognized as a heritage property, the city shall make available a sign to place on the property indicating its designation as a “historic property of special significance.”

E. Removal of Heritage Properties. Properties may lose recognition as a heritage property if the historic preservation commission and council determine that the property no longer meets the criteria for inclusion. (Ord. 2016-11 § 2, 2016)